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Edge computing presents unique challenges and limitations when compared to traditional data centres. This STL Partners report, sponsored by Iceotope, provides practical guidance for edge operators aiming to achieve sustainability goals.
“With edge computing projected to grow to over $450 billion in 2030, it is critical this growth is developed in as sustainable manner as possible – arguably more so than traditional centralised cloud,” said Philip Laidler, director of consulting for STL Partners. “This report examines the multitude of factors that need be considered when defining your edge sustainability strategy. There is no one-size-fits-all answer and edge operators must select the optimal advanced sustainability strategy based on their unique context.”
Executive Summary
While sustainability is a strategic priority for many organisations including telcos, it can be challenging
to decide on the optimal approach for meeting sustainability targets, especially in emerging
technology domains. Edge computing is projected to grow from a total global market size of
US$9 billion in 2020 to over US$450 billion in 2030, at a CAGR of 49% over the 10-year period. It is
critical that this rapid growth is developed in a manner as sustainable as possible, arguably more so
than the traditional centralised cloud. In addition to pursuing sustainability strategies that have been
successful in traditional data centre environments, edge operators should look to incorporate
advanced edge-specific sustainability strategies, which could eventually result in annual energy
savings of up to 5%, equating to ~US$40 million in total energy costs and over 1m tCO2eq of
emissions for a large group operator (see Figure 12 and Figure 13 for a breakdown of calculations).
However, there are no one-size-fits-all answers and edge operators must select the optimal advanced
sustainability strategy based on their unique context. This report examines the multitude of factors
that need be considered when defining your edge sustainability strategy and provides guidance based
on common scenarios.